Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is located on the Potomac River, bordering Virginia and Maryland. Named after George Washington, the first president, the city is a federal district separate from any state. Its name pays homage to both Washington and Columbia, a symbolic representation of the nation.
1901: McMillan Plan for Washington, D.C.
The McMillan Plan, finalized in 1901, aimed to beautify Washington, D.C. by relandscaping the Capitol grounds and National Mall, clearing slums, and establishing a citywide park system.
1908: Construction of the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue
The Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, located in Chinatown, was built in 1908.
1910: Federal Height of Buildings Act
The Federal Height of Buildings Act of 1910 was enacted, restricting building heights in Washington, D.C. to the width of the adjacent street plus 20 feet.
August 6, 1918: Record High Temperature in Washington, D.C.
The highest recorded temperature in Washington, D.C. was 106 °F (41 °C), reached on August 6, 1918.
1922: Record Snowstorm in Washington, D.C.
From January 27 to 28, 1922, Washington, D.C. experienced its largest snowstorm since 1885, with an official snowfall of 28 inches (71 cm).
1925: Establishment of the United States Navy Band
The United States Navy Band, headquartered at the Washington Navy Yard, was founded in 1925.
July 20, 1930: Record High Temperature in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. matched its record high temperature of 106 °F (41 °C) on July 20, 1930.
1935: Completion of the United States Supreme Court Building
The United States Supreme Court Building, situated north of the Library of Congress, was finished in 1935. Before then, the court convened in the Capitol's Old Senate Chamber.
1938: D.C. Adopts Official Flag
Washington, D.C., adopted its official flag, based on George Washington's family coat of arms, in 1938.
1940: African American Population Peak
Between 1800 and 1940, the African American population in Washington, D.C., remained relatively stable at around 30% of the total population.
1942: Joint Base Andrews Built
Joint Base Andrews, located in suburban Maryland, was constructed in 1942. It served solely as an Air Force base initially.
1950: Founding of Arena Stage
Arena Stage, founded in 1950, gained national recognition and fostered the growth of independent theater in Washington, D.C.
1950: Peak Population of Washington, D.C.
In 1950, Washington, D.C. reached its peak population of 802,178 residents, fueled by the expansion of federal employees during World War II.
1957: Opening of the Islamic Center of Washington
The Islamic Center of Washington, opened in 1957, was the largest mosque in the Western Hemisphere at the time.
1958: Opening of Ben's Chili Bowl
Ben's Chili Bowl, a renowned eatery on U Street, opened its doors in 1958 and gained fame as a place of peace during the 1968 race riots.
1961: Ratification of the Twenty-third Amendment
The Twenty-third Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified in 1961, granting the district three votes in the Electoral College for presidential elections, but not providing representation in Congress.
1961: Previous Low in Homicides
Washington D.C. experienced a relatively low number of homicides in 1961, setting a benchmark for future years.
1964: Interstate 495 is Constructed, Leading to "Inside the Beltway" Idiom
The construction of Interstate 495, also known as the Capital Beltway, in 1964 led to the popularization of the idiom "Inside the Beltway," used to describe national political discussions within Washington, D.C.
1964: D.C. Gains Presidential Vote; Democratic Support Solidifies
Washington, D.C., gained the right to vote in presidential elections in 1964 and has consistently voted for the Democratic candidate since then.
April 4, 1968: Riots Following Martin Luther King Jr.'s Assassination
On April 4, 1968, after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., riots broke out in Washington, D.C., lasting for three days and causing widespread destruction in predominantly black neighborhoods. Over 13,600 federal troops and National Guardsmen were deployed to quell the violence.
1968: Ben's Chili Bowl During the 1968 Riots
During the 1968 race riots in Washington, D.C., Ben's Chili Bowl became known as a safe haven amidst the unrest.
1970: African American Population Peak
The African American population in Washington, D.C., peaked at 70% in 1970.
1973: Home Rule Act Grants Limited Self-Governance
The Home Rule Act of 1973 granted Washington, D.C., a limited form of self-government by allowing for an elected mayor and city council, although Congress retained significant control.
1973: District of Columbia Home Rule Act
In 1973, Congress enacted the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, granting the district a degree of self-governance with an elected mayor and 13-member council.
1973: District of Columbia Home Rule Act
In 1973, Congress passed the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, establishing an elected mayor and council for the city.
1975: Walter Washington Becomes D.C.'s First Elected Mayor
Walter Washington made history in 1975 by becoming the first elected mayor of Washington, D.C., and the city's first black mayor.
March 27, 1976: Washington Metro Opens, Transforming Public Transportation
The Washington Metro, the city's rapid transit rail system, commenced operations on March 27, 1976. Serving Washington, D.C., and its Maryland and Northern Virginia suburbs, the Metro quickly became an integral part of the region's transportation network.
1976: Establishment of GALA Hispanic Theatre
The GALA Hispanic Theatre, a National Center for the Latino Performing Arts, was established in 1976 and is now housed in the historic Tivoli Theatre in Columbia Heights.
1976: Handgun Ban Implemented
In 1976, Washington D.C. enacted a ban on handguns, restricting residents from owning this type of firearm within the city.
1976: Marine Corps Marathon is Established
The Marine Corps Marathon, also known as "The People's Marathon", was established in 1976. It is notable for being the largest marathon that does not offer prize money to its participants.
1989: D.C. Government Labeled "Worst in America"
Washington, D.C.'s local government faced criticism for mismanagement and waste during Marion Barry's mayoralty, culminating in Washington Monthly magazine labeling it "the worst city government in America" in 1989.
1991: Peak Murder Rate
In 1991, Washington D.C. experienced its highest ever number of murders in a single year, reaching a shocking figure of 479.
1995: Financial Control Board Established
In 1995, Congress created the District of Columbia Financial Control Board to oversee the city's finances due to mismanagement during Barry's administration.
1998: Anthony Williams Elected Mayor, Ushering in Renewal
Anthony Williams was elected mayor in 1998 and his tenure was marked by urban renewal and budget surpluses, signaling a period of recovery for the district.
2000: Population Trend Reversal
After a half-century of population decline, Washington, D.C., began to experience population growth in the 2000s.
2000: Demographic Shifts and Gentrification
Between 2000 and 2010, Washington, D.C., experienced significant demographic shifts, with a notable increase in the non-Hispanic white population and a decrease in the Black population, partly attributed to gentrification.
2001: D.C. Regains Financial Control
In 2001, the District of Columbia regained control over its finances, and the oversight board's operations were suspended, indicating a significant step towards financial autonomy.
2005: Poll Highlights Lack of Awareness for D.C.'s Limited Representation
A 2005 poll revealed that 78% of Americans were unaware that residents of Washington, D.C., had less representation in Congress than residents of the 50 states, highlighting the need for greater awareness about the issue.
2005: Poverty Rate
In 2005, Washington, D.C., had a poverty rate of 19%, higher than any state except Mississippi.
2006: Educational Attainment
In 2006, half of Washington, D.C., residents held at least a four-year college degree.
2007: America's Favorite Architecture
In 2007, six of the top ten buildings in the American Institute of Architects' ranking of America's Favorite Architecture were located in Washington, D.C., reflecting the city's diverse architectural styles.
2007: D.C. Sees Steady Growth in Public Charter School Enrollment
By 2007, enrollment in D.C. public charter schools had been steadily increasing, driven by perceived problems with the traditional public school system, indicating a shift in educational preferences among families in the city.
2007: Illiteracy Rate
In 2007, about one-third of Washington, D.C., residents were functionally illiterate, a rate higher than the national average, partly attributed to a large immigrant population.
June 26, 2008: Supreme Court Ruling on Handgun Ban
On June 26, 2008, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in the case of District of Columbia v. Heller. The court determined that the city's 1976 handgun ban was a violation of the Second Amendment right to bear arms.
2008: Nationals Park Opens
Nationals Park, the home stadium of the Washington Nationals, opened in 2008.
2008: Economic Impact of Foreign Diplomatic Corps
In 2008, the foreign diplomatic corps in Washington, D.C., employed around 10,000 people and contributed an estimated $400 million to the local economy.
2008: D.C. Private Schools Enroll 18,000 Students
In 2008, Washington, D.C., had 92 private schools, which collectively enrolled about 18,000 students, providing an alternative educational pathway for families in the city.
2008: SmartBike DC Pilot Program Paves the Way for Bike Sharing
In 2008, Washington, D.C. implemented the SmartBike DC pilot program, a precursor to Capital Bikeshare, to test the feasibility and potential benefits of bike sharing in the city, laying the groundwork for the expansion of cycling infrastructure and alternative transportation options.
2009: HIV/AIDS Prevalence
A 2009 report revealed that at least 3% of Washington, D.C., residents were living with HIV or AIDS, categorized as a "generalized and severe" epidemic by the CDC.
2009: GDP per Capita Ranking
From 2009 to 2016, Washington, D.C., consistently held the top spot in GDP per capita among U.S. states.
2009: Joint Base Andrews Formation
In 2009, Andrews Air Force Base and Naval Air Facility Washington merged to establish the unified Joint Base Andrews. This marked a significant change in the base's structure and operations.
2009: Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage
Legislation authorizing same-sex marriage was passed in Washington, D.C., in 2009.
2009: Decades-Long Decline in DCPS Enrollment Ends
The year 2009 marked the end of a 39-year period of declining student enrollment in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS).
March 2010: Same-Sex Marriage Licenses
Washington, D.C., began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in March 2010, following the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2009.
2010: Capital Bikeshare Launched in D.C.
In 2010, Capital Bikeshare was introduced in Washington, D.C., as a regional bike sharing program, providing residents and visitors with a convenient and sustainable mode of transportation within the city.
2010: DCPS Enrollment Reaches 46,191 Amidst Challenges
In the 2010-2011 school year, the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) had an enrollment of 46,191 students, facing challenges related to infrastructure and student achievement despite being one of the highest-funded school systems in the country.
2010: Age Demographics and Immigration
In 2010, Washington, D.C., had a lower percentage of residents aged 18 or younger (17%) compared to the national average. The city was also home to an estimated 81,734 immigrants, with El Salvador, Ethiopia, Mexico, Guatemala, and China being major sources of immigration.
2010: Population and Ranking
The 2010 United States Census recorded Washington, D.C., as the 24th-most populous place in the U.S., with a population surpassing one million during the daytime due to commuters.
2010: Demographic Shifts and Gentrification
By 2010, gentrification had significantly impacted Washington, D.C., leading to a 31.4% increase in the non-Hispanic white population and an 11.5% decrease in the Black population.
2010: D.C. Charter Schools Reach 32,000 Students
As of 2010, D.C. charter schools reached a total enrollment of approximately 32,000 students, marking a 9% increase from the previous year and highlighting the continued growth and popularity of charter schools in the city.
2010: Arena Stage Reopening
Arena Stage reopened in 2010 after renovations and expansion in the developing Southwest waterfront area of Washington, D.C.
2010: D.C. Commuters Face Severe Traffic Congestion
A 2010 study revealed that commuters in the Washington, D.C. area experienced an average of 70 hours per year stuck in traffic delays, tying with Chicago for the worst road congestion in the United States. However, the study also highlighted that 37% of D.C.-area commuters opted for public transportation, the second-highest rate in the country, while 12% walked, 6% carpooled, and 3% cycled to work.
2010: Health Insurance Coverage
Over 90% of Washington, D.C., residents had health insurance coverage in 2010, the second-highest rate in the nation, partly due to city programs aiding low-income individuals.
2011: Union Station Transformed into Intercity Bus Transit Center
Following extensive renovations in 2011, Union Station took on a new role as Washington, D.C.'s primary intercity bus transit center, further enhancing its significance as a transportation hub.
2011: Fortune 500 Companies in Washington, D.C.
In 2011, four of the largest 500 companies in the United States were headquartered in Washington, D.C.
2011: National Spelling Bee Moves to National Harbor
In 2011, the National Spelling Bee began being held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.
2011: Language Spoken at Home
As of 2011, 85% of residents aged 5 and older in Washington, D.C., primarily spoke English at home.
2011: The Washington Post Maintains Strong Readership
In 2011, "The Washington Post," known for exposing the Watergate scandal, held the sixth-highest readership among all news dailies in the country, reflecting its enduring influence and importance in the national media landscape.
2012: Historic Low in Homicides
After a period of high crime rates, Washington D.C. saw a significant drop in homicides, with only 88 recorded in 2012. This marked the lowest point since 1961.
2012: D.C. Spends Millions on Hotel Rooms for Homeless Families
In 2012, Washington, D.C. spent $2,544,454 to provide hotel rooms for homeless families during the winter due to a law requiring shelter for everyone in need when temperatures fall below freezing and a shortage of shelter units.
2012: Tourism in Washington, D.C.
In 2012, Washington, D.C. welcomed about 18.9 million visitors who contributed an estimated $4.8 billion to the local economy.
2012: D.C. Residents Pay High Federal Taxes Despite Lack of Voting Representation
In the 2012 financial year, residents and businesses in Washington, D.C. paid $20.7 billion in federal taxes, exceeding the amount collected from 19 states, despite the city's lack of full congressional representation.
2013: Lower Rate of Unprosecuted Cases
In 2013, Washington D.C. maintained a significantly lower rate of unprosecuted cases compared to later years, indicating a different approach to criminal justice at the time.
2013: D.C. Budgets $3.2 Million for Hotel Beds for the Homeless
In 2013, Washington, D.C., allocated $3.2 million in its budget for hotel beds to accommodate homeless individuals and families during the winter, reflecting the ongoing challenge of providing adequate shelter space.
2013: Underground Power Line Expansion Plan
In 2013, a plan was put forth in Washington D.C. to bury an additional 60 miles of primary power lines across the district. This initiative aimed to further enhance the city's infrastructure and aesthetics.
2013: Washington Metropolitan Area Sees Low Automobile Commuting Rates
In 2013, the Washington Metropolitan Area recorded the eighth-lowest percentage of workers commuting by private automobile (75.7%), with 8% relying on rail transit, underscoring the region's diverse transportation options and the preference for alternative modes of commuting.
2013: Smithsonian Institution Attendance
The Smithsonian Institution's various locations in Washington, D.C., attracted a combined total of 30 million visitors in 2013.
2014: Corcoran College of Art and Design Merges with George Washington University
In 2014, the Corcoran College of Art and Design, the oldest art school in Washington, D.C., was integrated into George Washington University, becoming its college of arts, marking a significant change in the city's higher education landscape.
2015: High Homicide Rate
Washington D.C. recorded a relatively high number of homicides in 2015, contributing to concerns about crime in the city.
2015: D.C. Joins UNPO
Washington, D.C., became a member state of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) in 2015.
2015: D.C. Begins Expansion of Bike Lane Network
In 2015, Washington, D.C. embarked on an ambitious plan to enhance its cycling infrastructure, setting the stage for a significant expansion of its bike lane network in the following years.
2016: D.C. Statehood Referendum
In 2016, a referendum on D.C. statehood showed 85% support among voters in Washington, D.C.
2016: DC Streetcar Revives Streetcar Transit in D.C.
In 2016, after decades of absence, streetcars returned to Washington, D.C., with the inauguration of DC Streetcar. This single-line system, running along H Street and Benning Road in Northeast Washington, marked a revival of this traditional mode of transportation.
2016: Increase in Homicides
In 2016, homicides in Washington D.C. increased by 53% compared to 2012, reaching 135. However, this still represented a 17% decrease from the previous year (2015).
2016: Metropolitan Area Ranking
In 2016, the Washington metropolitan area, encompassing the district and its suburbs, ranked as the sixth-largest in the U.S., with an estimated six million residents.
2016: GDP per Capita
Washington, D.C.'s GDP per capita in 2016 was $160,472, almost three times higher than the second-ranked state, Massachusetts.
January 2017: Trump's Inauguration Strains City Finances
President Trump's inauguration in January 2017 cost Washington, D.C. $27 million, with $7 million not being repaid to the city's Emergency Planning and Security Fund.
March 2017: D.C. Statehood Bill Introduced
In March 2017, Eleanor Holmes Norton, the city's congressional delegate, introduced a bill for D.C. statehood.
2017: Median Household Income and Per Capita Income
The median household income in Washington, D.C., was $77,649 in 2017, with a per capita income of $50,832, surpassing all 50 states.
2017: Census Bureau Data on Race and Ethnicity
According to the 2017 Census Bureau data, Washington, D.C.'s population was predominantly Black or African American (47.1%) and White (45.1%), with Hispanic or Latino residents making up 11% of the population.
2018: Ex-Convict Population Report
A report released in 2018 revealed that 67,000 residents of Washington D.C., roughly 10% of the population, were ex-convicts. This highlighted the significant presence of individuals with criminal histories in the city.
2018: Amazon HQ2 Announcement
In 2018, Amazon revealed plans to establish its second headquarters (HQ2) in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
2018: 18th Busiest Airport System Globally
The Washington, D.C. area's airport system, encompassing its three main commercial airports, achieved the ranking of 18th busiest globally in 2018. This ranking was based on passenger traffic, which exceeded 74 million passengers.
2018: ParkScore Ranking for Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. was ranked third in the nation for park access and quality in the 2018 ParkScore ranking by the Trust for Public Land.
July 2019: Population Estimate
The U.S. Census Bureau estimated that the population of Washington, D.C., was 705,749 in July 2019, indicating growth since 2000 but a decline compared to the previous year.
2019: D.C. Statehood Bill Reintroduced
The D.C. Admission Act, a bill aiming for statehood, was reintroduced in 2019.
2019: Highest Median Household Income
Washington, D.C., had the highest median household income in the U.S. in 2019, at $92,266.
2019: Poverty Rate and Median Household Income
The poverty rate in Washington, D.C., stood at 14.7% in 2019. Notably, the city also recorded the highest median household income in the U.S. that year, at $92,266.
2019: Record Tourism in Washington, D.C.
In 2019, Washington, D.C., experienced a surge in tourism with 24.6 million visitors, including 1.8 million international tourists, who spent a total of $8.15 billion.
2019: "A Salute to America" Increases Independence Day Costs
President Trump's "A Salute to America" event in 2019 led to Independence Day celebration costs that were six times higher than in previous years.
2019: Decline in Crime Rates
By 2019, both property and violent crime rates in Washington D.C. had decreased from their peaks in the mid-1990s, marking a positive trend in the city's safety.
2019: Nationals Popularity Peaks
As of 2019, the Washington Nationals of Major League Baseball had become the most popular sports team in the District.
2020: 2020 Census: Population of Washington, D.C.
According to the 2020 census, the population of Washington, D.C. was 689,545, making it the 23rd-most populous city in the U.S.
2020: Washington, D.C. as a Think Tank Hub
As of 2020, Washington, D.C. housed 8% of the country's think tanks, including prominent ones like the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
2020: Redskins Become Commanders
The Washington Commanders were renamed from the Washington Redskins in 2020.
2020: Combined Statistical Area Ranking
The Washington-Baltimore combined statistical area, which includes the Washington metropolitan area, reached over 9.8 million residents in 2020, making it the third-largest in the country.
April 2021: D.C. Statehood Bill Passes House
The Washington, D.C., Admission Act, a statehood bill, was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in April 2021.
2021: Washington, D.C. Ranked Fifth Most Walkable City
A 2021 Walk Score study ranked Washington, D.C., as the fifth-most walkable city in the United States, highlighting the city's pedestrian-friendly streets, accessible amenities, and vibrant neighborhoods, particularly U Street, Dupont Circle, and Mount Vernon Square.
2021: D.C. Statehood Bill Passes House of Representatives
In 2021, a statehood bill for Washington, D.C. was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, but it was not adopted by the U.S. Senate.
2021: Rising Homicide Rates
Washington D.C. experienced an increase in homicides in 2021, surpassing 200 for the first time in several years and indicating a troubling trend.
May 2022: D.C. Celebrates Expansion of Bike Lane Network
In May 2022, Washington, D.C., marked a significant milestone by expanding its bike lane network to 104 miles (167 km), a 60% increase from 2015, with 24 miles (39 km) being protected bike lanes. This achievement, alongside 62 miles (100 km) of bike trails, showcased the city's commitment to promoting cycling infrastructure and alternative modes of transportation.
July 2022: Federal Government Employment in Washington, D.C.
As of July 2022, 25% of people employed in Washington, D.C. worked for the federal government, primarily in executive branch departments, agencies, and institutions.
2022: Top Employers in Washington, D.C.
In 2022, the top employers in Washington, D.C., included Georgetown University, Children's National Medical Center, and Washington Hospital Center, among others.
2022: Continued Rise in Homicides
The number of homicides in Washington D.C. remained above 200 in 2022, continuing the upward trend from the previous year and raising further concerns about safety in the city.
2022: Homeless Population Report
The HUD's 2022 Annual Homeless Assessment Report estimated that there were 4,410 homeless people in Washington, D.C.
2022: Museum Attendance in Washington, D.C.
In 2022, Washington, D.C., was home to eight of the 28 most visited museums in the United States. The National Museum of Natural History and the National Gallery of Art were the two most popular museums nationwide.
2022: Unemployment Rates
In 2022, the Washington metropolitan statistical area had an unemployment rate of 3.1%, while the District of Columbia itself had a rate of 4.6%.
2022: High Rate of Unprosecuted Offenders
In 2022, it came to light that nearly 70% of arrested individuals in Washington D.C. were not being prosecuted, leading to public criticism of the city government.
2022: Tourism in Washington, D.C.
In 2022, Washington, D.C. was ranked seventh among U.S. cities for tourism, with 20.7 million domestic visitors and 1.2 million international visitors.
2022: 13th Busiest Airport System Globally
Despite a decrease in passenger numbers to under 69 million, the Washington, D.C. airport system climbed to become the 13th busiest worldwide by 2022.
January 2023: D.C. Statehood Bill Reintroduced
The statehood bill for Washington, D.C. was reintroduced in January 2023 after facing obstacles in the Senate.
March 2023: D.C. Expands Bike Lane Network Further
As of March 2023, Washington, D.C., further expanded its network of bike lanes to 108 miles (174 km), with 30 miles (48 km) designated as protected bike lanes, reinforcing its dedication to providing safe and accessible cycling infrastructure for residents and visitors.
September 2023: NBC Sports Washington Becomes Monumental Sports Network
In September 2023, Washington, D.C.'s regional sports television network, NBC Sports Washington, was renamed to Monumental Sports Network.
October 2023: Decline in Unprosecuted Cases
After facing criticism for high rates of unprosecuted cases, Washington D.C. saw the rate drop to 56% by October 2023. While this was still higher than in previous years, it represented a significant decrease from the 70% recorded in 2022.
2023: Michelin Stars in Washington, D.C.
As of 2023, Washington, D.C., boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other U.S. city except for New York City and San Francisco.
2023: Metropolitan Economy
As of 2023, the Washington metropolitan area, including parts of Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia, was recognized as one of the largest metropolitan economies in the U.S., with a growing and diversified landscape.
2023: Union Station: A Transportation Hub
By 2023, Union Station had solidified its position as a vital transportation hub, serving as Amtrak's second-busiest station with 4.6 million annual passengers and ranking as the ninth-busiest rail station in the United States and tenth-busiest in North America.
2023: Global Financial Centres Index Ranking
In 2023, Washington, D.C., ranked as the 8th most competitive financial center globally and the 4th most competitive in the U.S., according to the Global Financial Centres Index.
2023: Population of the Washington Metropolitan Area
In 2023, the Washington metropolitan area, which includes parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, had a population of 6.3 million residents, making it the country's seventh-largest metropolitan area.
2023: Record-Breaking Homicide Rate
Washington D.C. faced a grim reality in 2023, with the city recording its highest number of homicides in 20 years. The total of 274 homicides placed D.C. with the fifth-highest murder rate among the nation's largest cities.
February 2024: Capital Bikeshare Flourishes as Major Bike Sharing System
As of February 2024, Capital Bikeshare, a regional bike sharing program launched in 2010, has become one of the largest in the United States, boasting 6,372 bicycles and 395 stations across Washington, D.C., and its surrounding areas.
February 2024: New Crime Reduction Bill
In an effort to address rising crime rates, the Council of the District of Columbia passed a significant bill in February 2024. The bill aimed to reduce crime by implementing stricter penalties for those who are arrested.